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Chromebooks have been going in and out of stock over the past few months, first because of the initial spike in working from home, and later due to the start of remote schooling. Thankfully, as we head into 2021, there are a few decent options in the $200-300 price range.
All of the models we’ve selected are fast enough to handle at least a few Chrome tabs and applications running at once, and when they’re available, we try to include models with large screens. We have a dedicated guide for the best Chromebooks overall, but this list is solely focused on budget options that are actually in stock right now.
Samsung Chromebook 4+: $299
The Samsung Chromebook 4+ is one of the best deals in the Chromebook market… when it’s not out of stock, that is. While the laptop doesn’t have a touch screen or 2-in-1 design, it does have a competent Intel Celeron N4000 processor and 4GB RAM. The main selling point here is the 15.6-inch 1080p screen, which has a higher resolution that most other laptops in (or slightly above) this price range.
This model is usually available at several retail stores, but Best Buy and Samsung’s own store seem to be the only in-stock options right now. Both stores also offer steep discounts for students and teachers. The Samsung Chromebook 4+ is scheduled to receive Chrome OS updates until June 2026.
HP Chromebook 14a: $261
This laptop from HP is very similar to the above-mentioned Samsung Chromebook 4. It has the same processor, RAM, display resolution, and storage. However, the screen is slightly smaller at 14 inches across (with the same 1080p resolution), and the speakers face upwards for improved sound quality.
The HP Chromebook 14a will receive Chrome OS updates until June 2026. You can buy it from the link below.
Lenovo Chromebook Duet: $249
If you’re in the market for something compact and easily portable, look no further than the Lenovo Chromebook Duet. It’s a Chrome OS tablet with a detachable keyboard, so when you’re done with your work for the day, you can take off the keyboard for easier touchscreen use.
The entry-level model currently available has a MediaTek Helio P60T processor, 4GB RAM, and 64GB of internal storage. It’s one of the few 10-inch Chromebooks with a full HD display, and it even supports stylus input. The Duet makes almost every Chromebook in this price range look terrible in comparison, as long as you’re okay with the smaller screen.
The tablet will receive updates until June 2028, and if you’re on the fence, check out our review.
Lenovo IdeaPad 3: $219
One last option for a cheap and small Chromebook is the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 (also called the Flex 3 in some places). It has a MediaTek MT8173C chipset, 4GB RAM, 32GB of internal storage, and an 11-inch 1366×768 touchscreen. This is one of the least-expensive Chromebooks available that can be flipped around and used like a tablet.
The IdeaPad 3 will receive Chrome OS updates until June 2026, at the earliest. You can get it from Best Buy at the link below.
